Rumours have run wild that Spanish hunk Gorka Marquez, 27, has struck up a romance with Hollyoaks actress Gemma Atkinson, 32, after they were spotted hanging out on a variety of occasions.

The pair have shunned all rumours, however, and have never shared a photo with the other on social media – until now.

Gorka, who is partnered with Alexandra Burke on the show, shared a gorgeous picture of himself with the blonde bombshell on Instagram to wish her a happy birthday.

Gorka Marquez is partnered with Alexandra Burke [Instagram]

Gemma Atkinson is known for her incredible physique [Gemma Atkinson/Instagram]

The adorable shot showed the genetically blessed pair looking very cosy as they posed up a storm for the sweet snap, beaming widely at the camera as they did – as romance speculation continues.

The pair were also apparently spotted enjoying a cosy breakfast date on Sunday morning.

An onlooker told The Metro: “Gemma was dressed down in her sweats and they were like any other couple, looking over their phones at the table.”

Gorka Marquez has become a firm favourite amongst the dancers this series [Gorka Marquez/Instagram]

The source said the pair “didn’t care who saw them together”.

While the duo have continued to insist they are merely “good friends”, they have done little to quash speculation they’re enjoying a fling.

Gemma recently told the Daily Star: “I really don’t want to talk about my love life to be honest. I don’t feel the need to respond to anyone about what I’m doing.”

Strictly Come Dancing Stars Gemma Atkinson and Aljaz Skorjanec [Wenn]

Strictly Come Dancing: Alexandra Burke is apparently fuming [BBC]

It comes after rumours emerged that Gorka Marquez’ famous dance partner Alexandra Burke is apparently “furious” that the hunky professional is spending too much time flirting with Gemma.

According to The Sun, the Bad Boys singer is not happy with the pair hanging out together, as she wants dancing to be their sole focus.

A source told the publication: “Gorka is a professional and he is not giving up any of his rehearsal time with Alex to see Gemma.

“Their romance doesn’t seem to distract him at all. But it is a sore point for Alex, who wishes she — and their dancing — was his sole focus. It really irritates her to see him flirting with Gemma. Alex is at heart a nice girl but has an unshakeable competitive streak.”